Finnish Forces

Sgt. Rönkä

http://www.mannerheim-ristinritarit.fi/ritarit?xmid=137

Oiva Rönkä (1913, Iisalmi -1983, Kemi), Knight of the Mannerheim Cross #32, photographed in hospital clothes. He served as rifleman in Seperate Battalion 17 (ErP 17) during Winter War and fought at Salla and Joutsijärvi. In Continuation War he was squad leader in 12th Infantry Regiment, 6th Division, and fought at Kiestinki until he was wounded on August 18, 1941. He was awarded with the Mannerheim Cross (2nd class) on October 22, 1941, for showing remarkable continuous courage and toughness under fire. According to the citation he participated in patrol which ambushed and destroyed supply column behind enemy lines and personally destroyed several trucks with their loads and drivers. He also led many successful recon patrols behind enemy lines. Later his squad defended a base from several strong enemy attacks and in the end he was alone to repel the last attack, and killed dozens of enemies with his submachinegun and grenades. Few days later enemy attacked again threatening the positions, but he organized counter-attack, pushed back the enemy, went on and captured strong enemy position. He was seriously wounded while attacking it.